US Air Force Develops New Defensive Cyber Campaign Plan Focused on Critical Infrastructure

Executive Summary

The US Air Force's 16th Air Force is creating a new cyber defense strategy aimed at harmonizing the efforts of different cybersecurity teams to better protect critical infrastructure and networks. This new plan emphasizes synchronizing the missions of cybersecurity service providers (CSSPs) who provide persistent defense, and cyber protection teams who hunt adversaries within networks. The approach, termed 'mission thread defense,' focuses on safeguarding the entire operational chain, including hardware, software, and data dependencies, to ensure resilience even under cyberattack. Recognizing that many critical infrastructure systems are owned by public utilities rather than the government, the Air Force is partnering with utility companies to enhance defenses through intelligence sharing, best practices, and sensor deployment. The National Guard also plays a role in exercises to prepare for crises involving utility networks. This strategy responds to emerging threats such as Chinese malware 'Volt Typhoon,' which targets US critical infrastructure using legitimate system tools for malicious purposes, representing a shift from espionage to disruption of US mobilization capabilities.

Situation

The 16th Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Thomas Hensley, highlighted the need to harmonize cyber defense missions that were previously conducted separately by different teams. The new strategy builds on existing efforts to protect mission-critical operations through 'mission thread defense,' ensuring operational endurance and integrity. The Air Force recognizes the vulnerability of military bases dependent on public utilities, which may only have limited backup power during outages caused by cyberattacks. Cooperative agreements with utility companies enable persistent monitoring and intelligence sharing to preempt or respond to attacks. Exercises involving the National Guard simulate crisis scenarios to strengthen partnerships and response capabilities. The rise of sophisticated cyber threats like Volt Typhoon underscores the urgency of this integrated defense approach.

International Impact

This enhanced cyber defense strategy reflects growing concerns about foreign cyber threats, particularly from China, targeting US critical infrastructure. The move signals US commitment to protecting national security assets and critical systems in an increasingly contested cyber environment. Internationally, it may prompt allied nations to adopt similar integrated cyber defense measures and foster cooperation on cyber threat intelligence sharing. Lt. Gen. Hensley stated, 'Mission thread defense protects our systems from any cyber threats, disruptions, and failures at any time,' underscoring the strategic importance of resilience in critical infrastructure.

Decision Maker Perspectives

US Air Force: Developing a harmonized cyber defense strategy to protect critical infrastructure and ensure operational continuity under cyberattack.

Public Utilities: Collaborating with the Air Force to improve cybersecurity defenses and enable persistent monitoring to safeguard essential services.

Source Perspectives

Breaking Defense: Provides detailed coverage of the Air Force's new cyber defense plan emphasizing mission thread defense and partnerships with utilities.

US President Trump Wears Golden F-22 Pin During Meeting with Turkish President Erdogan Amid F-35 Discussions

Executive Summary

During a September 25, 2025 meeting at the White House, US President Donald Trump wore a distinctive golden F-22 Raptor lapel pin while hosting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The pin drew attention given Turkey's longstanding desire to rejoin the US-led F-35 fighter jet program, from which it was removed in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian air defense systems. Trump indicated that discussions would include Turkey's potential re-entry into the F-35 program and other fighter jet acquisitions, expressing optimism about Erdogan's success in obtaining the jets he desires. Erdogan also referenced opportunities to discuss issues related to the F-35 and F-16 aircraft. Despite the symbolic pin and statements, no official announcements were made following the meeting regarding the F-35 or other defense deals. The F-22 is a US-only stealth fighter not offered internationally, contrasting with the F-35 program's multinational nature.

Situation

The meeting took place in the context of Turkey's efforts to regain access to the F-35 program after its 2019 removal. President Trump wore the golden F-22 pin throughout the meeting and subsequent public appearances, sparking speculation about its symbolic meaning. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of discussing fighter jet acquisitions, with Trump suggesting serious talks were forthcoming. Turkey continues to develop its indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the KAAN, but remains interested in US aircraft. The US government has not publicly confirmed any changes to Turkey's status in the F-35 program following the meeting. The pin's presence may symbolize US airpower or a gesture of goodwill, but official interpretations remain unclear.

International Impact

The meeting and discussions signal potential shifts in US-Turkey defense relations, which could impact NATO dynamics and regional security. Turkey's possible reintegration into the F-35 program would affect defense industrial cooperation and interoperability among allies. The absence of official announcements leaves uncertainty in international defense circles. Analysts note that Turkey's pursuit of advanced fighters reflects its strategic ambitions and desire to maintain strong military capabilities within the alliance framework.

Decision Maker Perspectives

US President Donald Trump: Expressed optimism about Turkey's success in acquiring F-35 jets and emphasized ongoing discussions.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Seeks to rejoin the F-35 program and acquire advanced fighter jets to bolster Turkey's defense capabilities.

Source Perspectives

Breaking Defense: Reports on the symbolic significance of Trump's F-22 pin and the implications of US-Turkey discussions on fighter jet programs.

North Korea's Strategic Shift Towards a Post-Western International Order

Executive Summary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is pursuing a strategic realignment away from engagement with the United States and South Korea, instead seeking legitimacy and economic development through closer ties with emerging global powers outside Western influence. His prominent presence at China's 2025 Victory Day military parade alongside leaders like Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin signals a break from decades of US-focused diplomacy. Following the collapse of denuclearization talks in Hanoi in 2019, North Korea has distanced itself from Washington and Seoul, rejecting overtures and emphasizing relations with socialist countries and anti-imperialist joint actions. The war in Ukraine and Russia's isolation have provided Pyongyang with leverage to diversify alliances, including ambitions to join the BRICS bloc, representing a multipolar world order. Kim's recent speeches confirm a rejection of denuclearization talks and normalization with the US, marking a new chapter in North Korean foreign policy focused on regime security and international prestige within an alternative global framework.

Situation

Historically, North Korea sought US recognition and inter-Korean engagement as pillars of its foreign policy. The failure of Trump-era diplomacy and the Hanoi summit collapse led to a strategic recalibration. Kim Jong Un now views the global landscape as transitioning from Western dominance to multipolarity, aligning with China and Russia's anti-Western stances. Pyongyang's 2024 treaty with Moscow and participation in BRICS events underscore its intent to embed itself in a new international community rejecting US-led order. US policies casting adversaries as a unified bloc have inadvertently strengthened ties among these countries. Kim's recent speeches explicitly dismiss denuclearization and reunification talks, signaling a firm stance on maintaining nuclear status and regime independence.

International Impact

North Korea's shift challenges US-led diplomatic efforts and alters the strategic calculus in East Asia. It complicates denuclearization prospects and regional security dynamics, potentially emboldening Pyongyang's nuclear posture. The move strengthens anti-Western alliances, impacting global geopolitical alignments. Analysts note that US rhetoric and policies may have accelerated North Korea's integration into an alternative international order. Kim's presence at international events symbolizes growing recognition from emerging powers, influencing diplomatic approaches worldwide.

Decision Maker Perspectives

North Korea (Kim Jong Un): Pursuing legitimacy and security through alignment with emerging non-Western powers, rejecting US engagement and denuclearization talks.

United States: Maintaining a combine-and-contain strategy against adversaries, which may have inadvertently strengthened North Korea's anti-Western integration.

Source Perspectives

Asia Times (Pacific Forum): Provides in-depth analysis of North Korea's strategic realignment towards a post-Western multipolar order and its implications.

Murder Investigation Underway After Discovery of Two Bodies in Boambee, NSW, Australia

Executive Summary

Homicide detectives in New South Wales, Australia, are investigating the deaths of a man and a woman in their 60s found deceased inside a home on Boambee Road, Boambee, near Coffs Harbour. Police were called to the residence at 5:15 pm local time on September 26, 2025, where the bodies were discovered. The State Crime Command's Homicide Squad has taken over the investigation, treating the case as a murder. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances or potential suspects. The incident has raised concerns in the local community as investigations continue.

Situation

The discovery of the two bodies has prompted a formal homicide investigation by specialized detectives. Police responded promptly to the scene and are conducting inquiries to determine the cause and manner of death. The identities of the deceased have not been publicly disclosed. The investigation is ongoing, with police appealing for any witnesses or information that could assist in solving the case. Local residents have expressed shock and concern, highlighting the rarity of such violent incidents in the area. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

International Impact

While the incident is a local criminal matter, it underscores broader issues of community safety and law enforcement responsiveness in Australia. The case may attract media attention regionally and nationally, but it has limited direct international implications. Australian authorities reaffirm their commitment to thorough investigations of violent crimes to maintain public trust and safety.

Decision Maker Perspectives

New South Wales Police: Conducting a thorough homicide investigation to determine the facts and bring any perpetrators to justice.

Source Perspectives

9News Australia: Reporting factual updates on the homicide investigation with a focus on local impact and police response.